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Iraq Beats Bolivia 2-1, Secures World Cup Return

6/17/2026

38 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Iraq qualified for the World Cup by beating Bolivia 2-1, with goals from Ali Al-Hamadi and Ayman Hussein.
Australian manager Graham Arnold leads Iraq as it opens against Norway at Boston Stadium on Tuesday, its first World Cup match since 1986.
Iraq was drawn into Group B with Norway, France and Senegal, while U.S. diaspora communities organize watch parties.

History

Historical Context

In 1986 Iraq, guided by Brazilian coach Jorge Vieira, became the first Arab nation to reach the World Cup finals in Mexico, finishing last with zero points and conceding six goals, the sole goal scored by Ahmed Radhi. After a 40-year gap, Graham Arnold now leads Iraq at the 2026 tournament—also in Mexico—where a strong showing could spark a $200 million youth-academy investment.

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Story summary

Iraq qualified for the World Cup by beating Bolivia 2-1, with goals from Ali Al-Hamadi and Ayman Hussein.
Australian manager Graham Arnold leads Iraq as it opens against Norway at Boston Stadium on Tuesday, its first World Cup match since 1986.
Iraq was drawn into Group B with Norway, France and Senegal, while U.S. diaspora communities organize watch parties.

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